Kelsea Ballerini Reacts to News That She Won ACM’s New Female Artist Award

Kelsea Ballerini has been on a steady path to country stardom since her first single, “Love Me Like You Mean It,” was released, but the artist is continually surprised by her success.

Ballerini posted a photo on Instagram on March 23 showing her completely shocked reaction to getting the news that she’d won the 2016 ACM Award for New Female Artist. She's seen sitting on the floor, jaw dropped, hands to her temples, as she receives the verdict. Her caption is one of complete humility and gratitude, thanking fans sincerely for getting her to where she is and noting her inability to stay calm in situations like these.

"I don't even know what to say, so for now I will just say THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart. For making not only my dreams come true, but for making all of the people around me who work so hard have so many beautiful moments to celebrate," she writes.

Ballerini’s genuine approach to her newfound life in the spotlight and her musical career have established her as one of country’s beloved sweethearts, and her songwriting prowess makes her one of the most promising. It’s no surprise she’s done well, though, considering she received Taylor Swift’s coveted endorsement early on, and Swift doesn’t bestow that honor to just anyone.